Much like
“post-modern” and “pop sensibilities,” “lo-fi” is a term that’s often used
incorrectly in regard to music. Arguably, every band starts out as a lo-fi
operation—good equipment costs money, and the sound quality typically
“improves” once an act is signed to a major label. A lot of bands strive to
retain their distorted roots after lucrative contracts have been signed, but
many give in to the temptation of more polished music.
Thankfully,
after three albums, Cloud Nothings still presents the roughness of a college
garage band. This isn’t surprising, since frontman Dylan Baldi recorded the
group’s self-titled debut on a computer in his basement while studying at Case
Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio. The initial record was so
impressive that, following a 2009 show in New York, a concert promoter
convinced Baldi to drop out of school and hire a full band. Joe Boyer, TJ
“Juck” Duke and Jayson Gerycz came on board to record Cloud Nothings’ second
album, Turning On, in 2010. Their third release, Attack on Memory, dropped in
January 2012, and became the first album of the year to earn “Best New Music”
status on Pitchfork.com (for music blog laypeople, this is kind of a big
deal).
Attack on
Memory is arguably Cloud Nothings’ strongest recording yet. Baldi’s anguished
vocals channel most obviously Kurt Cobain’s, with a little Liam Gallagher and
Frank Black for thrown in for good measure (even if the guy kinda looks like
McLovin). The instrumental section more closely emulates mid-90’s post-punk
outfits like Slint, Sebadoh and Sonic Youth. The end result is a raucously hot
mess—a complimentary distinction for a self-described lo-fi band.
Cloud
Nothings will appear tonight at The Crocodile. Mr. Dream, a Brooklyn group
whose sound is reminiscent of 80’s alt staples like The Buzzcocks, will be the
opening act. Doors open at 8 p.m.; tickets ($12.50 per person) are available online.
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